Walter the Farting Dog: Trouble At the Yard Sale
#2 of 6 in Walter the Farting Dog Series
What’s inside...
Walter's family is holding a yard sale with few customers. Walter, farting contentedly near his father, wonders why there are so few people. A man offers ten dollars for Walter and his father agrees to sell him. Walter is sad to leave his family, but relieved when he discovers his new owner is a clown, hoping to help bring joy to children. However, the clown has a sinister plan to use Walter's gas to inflate balloons for bank robberies. Walter refuses to be part of the plot and ultimately becomes a hero, reuniting with his family by using his unique ability.
Discussion points
Why do you think Walter helped out at the yard sale even though he was feeling nervous?
What are some ways that Walter shows he cares about his family and friends in the story?
How do you think the other characters felt when Walter tried to help? Can you share a time when you tried to help someone?
What would you have done if you were at the yard sale? How would you handle a similar situation?
What can we learn from Walter's mistakes and successes at the yard sale?
Tip: Role play these questions
Start by expressing curiosity about your child's thoughts on the story, focusing on Walter's actions and motivations. Encourage your child to relate personal experiences similar to situations in the book. Praise their insights and gently guide the conversation towards understanding empathy, consequences, and the value of helping. Use expressions or examples from the book to make the discussion lively and relatable.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Acceptance and Embracing Differences
Explanation: In 'Walter the Farting Dog: Trouble At the Yard Sale', Walter's unique problem of farting is initially seen as a drawback. However, his family learns to accept him as he is, which helps them tackle challenges together.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to embrace their own differences and those of others, fostering a sense of acceptance and inclusivity in their everyday interactions.
Example Lesson: Problem Solving
Explanation: The story shows Walter and his family creatively solving the problem of the burglars at the yard sale using Walter's farting ability. This encourages thinking out of the box to turn seeming disadvantages into advantages.
Real-World Application: Kids can learn to approach problems creatively in their daily lives, understanding that sometimes unconventional solutions can be the most effective.
Example Lesson: Value of Teamwork
Explanation: Walter and his family work together to prevent the burglars from stealing at the yard sale. This teamwork is essential in overcoming their obstacle.
Real-World Application: This can teach children the importance of collaborating with others to achieve common goals in school or in play.
Example Lesson: Courage in Adversity
Explanation: Despite the initial negative view towards Walter's farting, the family eventually uses it to their advantage. They show courage in dealing with an unexpected situation during the yard sale.
Real-World Application: Children learn the importance of courage in facing difficult situations and using their unique traits positively.